14-7-2023 (BANGKOK) As Thailand awaits the formation of a new government, tourism operators are expressing worries about potential protests that could harm the country’s image. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, President of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstrations that are monitored by authorities to avoid negative perceptions among the international community.
Tourists prioritize safety and convenience while travelling, and certain nationalities, such as the Japanese, are particularly sensitive to political unrest. Past major demonstrations in Bangkok have impacted hotels near protest sites, with the extent of the impact depending on the duration and level of violence, according to Mrs. Marisa.
A recent THA survey revealed a nationwide hotel occupancy rate of 46% in June. However, Mrs. Marisa expects an improvement in July and August due to the summer holidays, and she believes that political protests will not significantly affect this positive trend.
All hotel operators are eager to see a government established promptly, as the tourism industry requires a public mechanism to stimulate sluggish demand. Mrs. Marisa stated that the new government should expedite demand from both the public sector and private companies, which have suspended meetings and seminars pending a clearer political situation. Delays in the fiscal 2024 budget could hinder the disbursement of funds for specific projects and agencies within the public sector, she added.
Adith Chairattananon, Honorary Secretary-General of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta), expressed confidence that political demonstrations would not have as much impact on the sentiment of foreign tourists or the tourism industry as the delay in government formation. Mr. Adith noted that protests and political activities are common in many countries, and he believes that most foreign tourists will understand the situation and avoid protest sites.
Unlike natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods, which have caused injuries and fatalities, Atta has not recorded any cancellations attributed to political uncertainty. Mr. Adith emphasized that the sooner a government is established, the quicker it can help businesses improve and attract more inbound demand. He also reassured that political activities would not affect the decision of Chinese tourists, who are expected to contribute significantly to Thailand’s tourism this year.
According to Mr. Adith, crimes against tourists, such as abductions and scams, have a more detrimental impact on Thailand’s image than political protests.
